A big draw for tourists and residents alike in Honolulu, Hawaii is the luau. If you asked the average American whether they would want a Philadelphia spa package or to attend a Hawaiian luau, the luau would win hands down. Luaus have become the international symbol of Hawaiian culture, but what exactly does a luau involve? If you want to do your research before moving to or vacationing in the Hawaiian Islands, this article should help you get started.
Luaus were originally traditional feasts held as celebrations as part of native Hawaiian Island culture. Back then they were called "paina" or "ahaaina," but as luaus have become increasingly commercialized, the name "luau," which is the name for a dish made with chicken, octopus, taro, and vegetables, became increasingly common. Today commercial luaus bring in lots of gold bullion bars to the island economy.
So if you go to a luau, what can you expect? Traditional Hawaiian dishes are the main order of the evening. You might be called upon to try kalua (pig baked in an underground oven with volcanic rock and banana leaves), poi (which is a viscous taro-based soup), poke (raw fish salad), haupia (coconut milk gelatin), and of course locally brewed beer. Luaus can be quite the adventurous experience for the tastebuds of someone who lives in a Mississauga condo.
Though the luau is predominantly based around the feast, it wouldn't be a real luau without the decorations. Luaus are usually held at night in an open outdoor area lit by tiki torches. Guests sit or kneel at low wooden tables and are given leis, which are necklaces of fresh native flowers and leaves that represent friendship. At the head of the area a lighted area or stage usually features native Polynesian dancers in traditional costumes (flower garlands, grass skirts) demonstrating the hula dance and inviting guests who sell automatic waterers in Idaho to don the costume and give it a try for fun.
If you want to attend a luau, there are literally hundreds of outfits all over the Hawaiian Islands who specialize in hosting luaus for tourists. Your hotel probably hosts a luau at least once a week but if not, they can direct you to someone who does. You will have to pay to attend these luaus, the same as if you were going to a restaurant. However, a former specialist in fitness in Toronto now living in Honolulu might get invited to a real luau if he makes friends locally.
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